The Calgary Flames defied all odds in 2015 by making the Stanley Cup playoffs. Not only did they make the playoffs, they defeated the Vancouver Canucks in 6 games and put up a good fight against the Pacific Division Champions the Anaheim Ducks.

The highlight of the playoffs for me was working on The Calgary Flames one minute warning video. Every game a one minute warning video is played that then leads into the opening video. The announcer, Beezly, will announce to the crowd that the lights will go out in one minute. A quick 60 second video is then played showcasing motion graphics timed to a music track. One minute warning videos are usually created with more of a motion graphic treatment utilizing photos of the players, fans and other in game related stuff.

Please note the audio has been removed.

Programs: After Effects

When I found out that I would be tasked with helping create graphics for the video I went searching for songs. In 2004 The Flames went on a magical run losing to the Tampa Bay Lightning in 7 games of the Stanley Cup Final. During that playoff run the team used the song "Bring Me To Life" by Evanescence. It was well suited since the team had missed the playoffs for the past 7 years. Now that The Flames last playoff appearance was in the 2008-09 season (5 years ago) it made sense to try and reuse the song again in some way.

I found this awesome remix of the song on YouTube by BlackSkyAudio. This version of the song has a very atmospheric vibe to it giving it more of an "easter egg" feel. I figured it would give the hardcore fans that where apart of the 2004 run goosebumps. I am not sure about the goosebumps, but users on CalgaryPuck noticed.

I tag teamed the project with Chris Dunwald, a fellow employee. I created the portion of the video from 0:16 seconds to 0:32 seconds. I used a technique called the parallax effect which involves the background moving at a slower rate to the foreground, creating a 3D effect. Below are a few photos I used to create this effect. I have added a transparency to each layer so it can be seen what was cut out and how many different layers where used.

Below you will find each section of the video cut down into a gif with a description of small details and some Calgary Flames easter eggs.

A Green Hard Hat

The current goal celebration LED is being used in the background, a man wearing a green hard hat from the 2004 playoff run, flags created in 3D by Chris Dunwald and mixed fans from over the years.

Budweiser Red Light Helmet

I animated the fan favourite "Budweiser Red Light Helmet" using optical Flairs. Please note the use of red here...

Harvey and Friends

If you have ever been to a Flames game Harvey the Hound and his following of kids cannot be missed. A foam hand was also added for good measure. Harvey is also holding his bone hitting the drum.

Wideman's Walkout

Denis Wideman walkingout high-fiving kids. He does this every single game. The Calgary Flames walkout LED was added. Big shout out to Corey Myke for pointing out that I render it upside down.

The Scotiabank Skater

Every regular season game a kid is selected to be the Scotiabank Skater. Their duties include walking the team out onto the ice holding a Calgary Flames flag. I also added the flashing strobe lights that appear when the Flames fly out of the players tunnel.

Oh Canada

The Scotiabank Skater and the team lined up at centre ice for the national anthems. I added a spot light and camera flashed to create more glam. This photo is special to me since I snaped it earlier this year. :)

Fans with Foam

More foam fingers, spotlights and fans...

Flame Thrower

The parallax portion of the video ends with the iconic flame blast that is present during goal celebrations and opening ceremonies.